Program Spotlight

From sea kayaking and mountaineering to wine tasting and sheep shearing,
you’ll love all that the South
Island has to offer. Your Kiwi host (local New Zealand student) will show you
around your new home at the
country’s oldest university.

Program Spotlight

Study AND intern in Perugia, Italy to get the most out of your semester
abroad. Combine your studies with hands-on experience for a great resume
builder. Enjoy fun, social and cultural activities with other study abroad
participants and life in this beautiful, hilltop town full of Italian college
students.

Why CISabroad

On Summer in Peru, learn about local culture and improve your Spanish in the land of the Incas. While you study Spanish abroad in the Andes, learn about of this culturally rich corner of South America by visiting ancient ruins, beautiful cathedrals, and small rural villages.

We have the experience to help you. At CISabroad, all our advisors have studied or lived abroad. From Machu Picchu to potatoes, we love the highlands of Peru. Study abroad in Peru and see what we mean!

We care about the environment. Your round-trip flight to Cusco will be offset by the work of volunteers around the world, as well as by opportunities for you to give back to the local community while you spend your summer abroad in Peru.

Program

Cusco is the center of modern indigenous culture in Peru, so you’ll learn a ton about South America outside of the classroom when you study abroad in Cusco. Join Summer in Peru at 11,500 feet in an incredible city with a vibrant culture. Start getting excited about:

Study Spanish abroad in the Andes – The way to learn Spanish is to immerse yourself in it, and that’s just what you’ll do on Summer in Cusco!

The impressive Sacred Valley – Imagine a region filled with stunning mountain views, Quechua-speaking communities, and llamas. On the weekends, you’ll get to explore this diverse region’s salt flats, market towns, ancient ruins, and more. It’s all a short, inexpensive trip from downtown Cusco. See it all on your summer abroad in Peru!

Machu Picchu – This famous site that was recently picked as one of the Seven New Wonders of the World. Come discover why!

A colonial city filled with history – Cusco is full of pre-Hispanic and colonial history, which often overlap in fascinating ways. Churches built on pre-Inca spiritual sites, European-esque paintings of the Last Supper that include Andean regional cuisine, and leafy Spanish-style plazas atop Incan stone that make Cusco one of the most dynamic cities in Peru.

Excursions

While spending your summer in Peru with CISabroad, you'll have the opportunity to view some of the most famous sites not only in Peru, but in the world.

Machu PicchuThis incredible creation of the Incan Empire is made up of walls, terraces and ramps that form one of the most iconic views known to man. If you're spending a summer in Peru, touring there ruins is essential!

Sacred ValleyFilled with ancient Incan ruins, bustling modern cities, and beautiful rivers, the Sacred Valley is another Peruvian treasure that is not to be missed.

Academics

Summer in Peru offers 2 study options: you can focus on your Spanish in the Spanish Immersion Program, or you can take a Spanish-language course and a Peru-focused course taught in English. All levels of Spanish, from beginner to advanced, can be accommodated. A placement test taken when you arrive in Peru will determine the best language course for you. The classes are highly interactive, and the field trips built into the curriculum will help you gain a true understanding and appreciation of this magnificent area.

GPA Required: 2.7. If you find your GPA is lower than the requirement, do not despair! Use the "Contact An Advisor" button on this page or call us to let us know your situation. We'll do all we can to find the right program for you.

How to choose your coursesNow the fun part! As part of the application process you will be required to complete the CISabroad Course Selection Worksheet found in the CISabroad Application Page. The following instructions will guide you through the steps of choosing your courses.

Course load: 2 classes (6 US credits)

Course approval: It is best to get 3–4 classes approved before you go abroad. This gives you some flexibility in setting up your class schedule. Think about courses required for your major, but also courses that fulfill your elective requirements.

QuechuaThis is a practical and experiential course in which students use their knowledge in situation that simulate real communication with other speakers of the Andean language. The course is geared toward students' use of the four language skills (reading, writing, speaking and listening) to communicate at a basic level through the acquisition of general knowledge of grammar and vocabulary that will enable them to establish communication with the rural Quechua0speaking population in ordinary situations.

History of the Inca Civilization (English)Learn the prehistory of civilizations in the central Andean region, with critical and updated opinion about the studied historical periods and the great Inca Civilization.

Contemporary Society and Culture of Peru (English)Peruvian society has undergone a series of transformations enriched by Andean, Occidental, and Amazonian traditions. These transformations will be addressed from historical, anthropological, and sociological perspectives.

Biodiversity of Peru (English) Peru’s astonishing biodiversity puts it among the top 12 most biodiverse countries in the world. This theoretical course will focus on developing the skills needed to analyze and value the components of biodiversity. You’ll identify the potentials of this biodiversity and the tools needed for its sustainable use and conservation.

Inca Architecture (English)This amazing course will develop knowledge of, as well as interest in, the concepts, techniques, and architecture and urban management of Andean society represented by the Inca culture.

Art & Design in Cusco (English)The course is aimed at critical analysis of the history of Cusco’s art from a visual perspective, creating new spaces for reflection. Artistic expressions from the different periods of its cultural development are studied and interpreted, within the framework of their particular contexts of time and space.

Photography (English)While in Cusco, you’ll take hundreds of photographs. In order to have the best shots, you’ll learn the photographic production process, including the study of visual treatment, lighting and mastery of digital photography resources. You will take the best photos of Machu Picchu, rivers, churches, archaeological sites, markets, and people, using the appropriate composition and measures.

Latin American Literature (Spanish)This theoretical-practical course develops the skills you need to read critically and value Latin American literature through detailed analysis of poetry and novels.

Business in Peru and Latin America (English)The objective of this course is to introdcue the student to the Peruvian Economy, the policital and economic forcers shaping business activities, and the national challenges ahead to obtain social progress. The course also looks at how these factors influence Latin America as a whole and the influence other Latin American countries has on Peru. Finally, the course looks at recent successful Peruvian marketing strategies.

Andean Nutrition (English)The purpose of this course is to familiarize students with the nutritional wealth of Andean crops and their significance in the population's nutrition, comparing them with other crops and their influence and importtance regarding the world food supply. Healthy recipes will be developed using these products as ingredients. Lastly, we will review the type of Andean crops being exported to the USA, Europe, etc.

Communications Psychology (English)Theoretical course based on social psychology with the main emphasis on media communication manifestations. The course is oriented mainly towards the analysis of mass media, critical observation of media contents, and the different approaches that messages have, with a particular focus on the public as individuals and groups.

Location

Cusco is one of the most popular destinations in South America. It’s the historical capital of Peru, and an important place to view ancient Incan history. Cusco’s stunning architecture and various ruins made the city a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.

The city is situated at 11,500 feet in elevation, giving it a brisk mountain climate and beautiful views of the mountains rising up all around it. The people are known for being friendly, the food is delicious, and the nightlife is thriving! You can listen to Andean flutes, buy handmade alpaca hats and sweaters, cheer on the Cienciaro fútbol team, and go to salsa clubs to learn the moves. Cusco is home to a large expatriate and- depending on which neighborhood you are in- hippie community, which makes this diverse city even more fun! You’ll love walking along the city’s beautiful cobblestone streets, hanging out in the famous Plaza de Armas, and soaking in all of the amazing things that Cusco offers.

The University

On Summer in Peru, you will study at a Cusco-based satellite campus of the Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola, a well-known Peruvian university. The university’s vision represents the academic experience you will have: to be a leader in producing professionals with a high level of quality and ethics according to national and international standards. Experienced faculty combine theoretical concepts with case studies to "develop a culture of assessment, innovation and continuous improvement." Student-faculty interaction is key to the university’s success—and yours.

This well-rounded program combines Spanish-language study and extracurricular activities, with the city of the Cusco and the surrounding Sacred Valley as your classroom. The university uses new technology-inspired teaching methods: you'll be able to find information on your courses, schedules, curricula, grades, bulletins and everything else a student could want!

Student Life

Virtually all tourists to Peru visit Cusco, so it’s a cosmopolitan city that never stops, with restaurants and bars that have food from around the world. The people from Cusco are kind and welcoming. As soon as you arrive in Cusco, you’ll find that everyone wants to share their rich history with you! They are always willing to show you the city’s archaeology or explain the history of an Incan building.

Upon arrival in Peru, you’ll be met at the airport and taken to your housing. Then, an on-site orientation will get you used to your housing and the International Center. During the program, you’ll participate in excursions and field trips from the breathtaking ruins of the ancient Incan city Machu Picchu to the imposing Sacsayhuaman fortress and other archaeological sites.

The Summer in Peru program is in a great location, and you’ll find most things are just a quick walk from your housing. But there is so much more to explore outside of Cusco. The Sacred Valley contains dozens of ruins and many villages, each with their own personality and interesting attributes. It would be easy to spend a full year exploring the Sacred Valley.

Housing

During your summer in Cusco, you’ll be able to choose from two different housing options.

Apartments: You can live in dorm style apartments called “Casa de Don Ignacio”, which are located just a few blocks from Cusco’s main square, Plaza de Armas. The dorm style apartments have shared bedrooms, bathrooms, a living room, a kitchen with a stove and a fridge, a television and wireless internet access. Housekeeping and sheets are also included, and laundry can be done for a small fee. The building also has a TV room and a computer room that all students have access to. You’ll have breakfast provided, although all other meals are self-catered. If you prefer a single room, you can request that for a higher rate. The apartment’s convenient location means that you can have access to all of Cusco’s best attractions just minutes from your door!

Homestays: You also have the option of living with a local Peruvian family, which students usually report was their favorite part of studying abroad. By being treated as part of the family, you’ll get to completely immerse yourself in Peruvian culture in a way not many people get to do! Breakfast and dinner will be provided for you daily, along with bed linens, utilities, and regular laundry services. Each of our homestay families have been carefully interviewed and visited to make sure that you will feel safe and comfortable during your time in Cusco.

In-Country Support

CISabroad Site Director in Peru:

Originally from Peru, Cristian studies Tourism in his native Cusco, where students undertake in-depth studies of Peru's archaeology, flora, fauna and history. Cristian will soon complete his Master’s degree in administration with mention in tourism management, and he is also currently a teacher in the Private University of Cusco (Universidad Andina). In addition, Cristian has been guiding visitors for 11 years. He has three children: two daughters and one boy.

Cristian says, “I want to thank everyone who likes to travel because it gives me the chance to meet them!”

FAQs

The final Payment Deadline for Summer in Peru, Session 1 is April 15th and Session 2 is June 1st. CISabroad will email invoices to students approximately one month before the program payment deadline. For example, if your payment deadline is July 15, you should expect your invoice in mid-June. If you are using financial aid, please ensure all financial aid paperwork is returned to our office by the payment deadline. If your financial aid does not cover your entire balance, CISabroad accepts these payment methods.

3. What is due with my application and when is my application due?

There are four easy steps in the Application process.

1. Fill out the online application, which includes your contact information, what program you are applying for, etc.

2. Pay the $200 application deposit in order to secure your space in the program. This amount will be applied toward the final cost.

For detailed instructions, see application instructions. The application deadline for the Summer in Peru program is usually in early April. For exact dates, contact an advisor or check here.

4. Do I need a passport or visa? When should I apply for my passport/visa?

Yes, you do need a passport to travel to Peru. Your passport must be valid for 6 months BEYOND the date you return to the United States. For detailed passport instructions, U.S. citizens should check the State Department's Travel Site. For the Summer in Peru program, you do not need to get a visa. U.S. Citizens can stay in Peru for up to 183 days without a tourist visa.

5. Is there a GPA requirement?

Yes. The GPA requirement for the Summer in Peru program is 2.7, but sometimes a lower GPA is accepted. Contact an advisor for more information at info@cisabroad.com.

6. What are my housing options?

The Summer in Peru program has two options. One is with local homestay families and the other is in apartment style hotel rooms. Homestay families provide 2 meals a day while the apartment serves breakfast only. Both are great options, but contact an advisor at 1-877-617-9090 for more information and help deciding which option is best for you.

7. Will other students participate in the program with me? How many?

CISabroad programs are not only a great way to meet local and international students, but also students from around the United States. Program size varies each year - if enrollment size is important to you, contact a CISabroad advisor at 1-877-617-9090.

8. How many credits are offered in the program?

For the Summer in Peru program, there are two sections. For each section, a student will receive approximately 6 credits and it is possible to do both sections. For a more detailed breakdown of program and course options in Peru, go here.

9. Can I combine this program with another CISabroad program like intern, summer, or semester abroad?

Yes! A great way to extend your CISabroad experience is participating in another program. Combine semester programs to create a full academic year or if an academic year is just a little too long and a semester is too short, combine a semester and summer session or a semester and a January term program. You can also participate in a semester abroad and combine that with a summer intern abroad. To find out more information on the application process for more than one CISabroad program, contact a CISabroad advisor at 1-877-617-9090.

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Program Testimonials

"The people of Cusco really are so friendly. Being able to immerse my self in their culture for 5 weeks has been the most amazing experience of my life! I also made great friends from the States; we all got along so well and are already talking about visiting each other."